Don Quixote

Don Quixote is one of the most vibrant and entertaining ballets in the classical repertoire. Ludwig Minkus' lively and colorful music brings to life a sunny Spanish world full of passion, humor, and romance. Ballet companies around the world regularly stage this beloved ballet, delighting audiences of all ages with its virtuosity and joyful spirit. The ballet was first presented in 1869 at the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow. It was created by the great choreographer Marius Petipa, with later revisions by Alexander Gorsky, which further enriched its dramatic and dance elements. Don Quixote is based on episodes from the famous novel Don Quixote. Rather than focusing on the knight himself, the ballet tells the lively love story of Kitri and Basilio. With the help of the noble dreamer Don Quixote, the young couple overcomes obstacles and is finally united. The ballet is famous for its brilliant choreography, fiery character dances, and the dazzling grand pas de deux in the final act, making it a favorite for both performers and audiences alike. In addition to the grandiose stage design by the brilliant director Vyacheslav Okunev, who works for the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg and La Scala in Milan, and their magnificent costumes, the boundless elegance and carefree lightness of the International Festival Ballet ensemble offer a dreamlike, fairy-tale version of a classic ballet that continues to fascinate after more than 100 years. The complete timing can be found a few days before the concert on www.capitole-gent.be.